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How a Technology Leader Can Help EB & ELL Students in School



As schools around the world get more diverse, figuring out how to meet the needs of English-Bilingual (EB) and English Language Learner (ELL) students has become a major challenge. Technology leaders in education like administrators, teachers, and the IT department, have a good chance to make a real difference by making sure these students get equal access to learning opportunities. Using technology in innovative ways, technology leaders can enhance the educational experiences of EB and ELL students, helping them close language gaps, stay engaged, and succeed academically.


Access to Personalized Learning


One of the best ways technology leaders can help EB and ELL students is by personalized learning tools. These students often struggle with learning English, and technology solutions tailored to their individual learning styles, pace, and levels can really make a difference.


Platforms like language learning apps and customized learning management systems create personalized paths for EB and ELL students. Technology leaders can introduce tools that let these students move through lessons at their own speed, with the option to go back and review content whenever needed. For example, apps like Rosetta Stone, Duolingo, and Google Translate can offer ELL students language support by translating lessons or giving real-time vocabulary help.


Personalized learning also supports different learning needs in the classroom, allowing teachers to provide targeted instruction while keeping academic standards high. Technology enables the creation of digital tools that break down tough content into bite-sized steps, making challenging subjects like math or science more approachable. By making use of these digital resources, technology leaders can help create an environment where EB and ELL students feel more confident in their learning, reducing frustration and boosting motivation and confidence.


Helping with Language


Technology leaders can also play a huge role in enhancing language acquisition for EB and ELL students through various digital language tools. By using multimedia resources like videos, podcasts, and interactive games, technology can make learning a new language more fun and less scary (Fingal, 2021).


For instance, platforms like Seesaw or Flipgrid let students practice their speaking and writing by recording and sharing their responses. These tools give ELL students a chance to practice English in a relaxed setting, easing the anxiety that often comes with learning in a traditional classroom. With these tools, feedback from teachers and other students can be immediate and constructive, providing chances for improvement.


Technology leaders can support educational software that boosts listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in English. Tools like Speech-to-Text (STT) and Text-to-Speech (TTS) software, such as Read&Write are super useful for ELL students, as they help strengthen pronunciation and reading abilities. These tools are especially handy for students with different language backgrounds since they offer real-time feedback and personal assistance while practicing their language skills.


Online platforms let ELL students connect with native English speakers. Through language exchange programs or virtual friends, students can work on their conversational skills and dive into real-life language use.


Promoting Cultural Awareness and Inclusion


Technology leaders have the ability to impact ELL students by making sure their learning environments are inclusive, recognizing the value of cultural backgrounds and diverse perspectives and using students' customs, traits, experiences, and viewpoints to improve classroom instruction (Will & Najarro, 2023). A great way to do this is by integrating culturally relevant content into digital learning materials. Technology leaders can push for platforms that let ELL

students access content that resonates with their own experiences while exposing them to various viewpoints.


Virtual field trips, for example, let students explore different parts of the world from their classroom. Websites and apps like Google Earth or Nearpod offer virtual tours that bring history, landmarks, and global cultures to life.





Fostering Collaboration and Communication


A big part of the learning journey for EB and ELL students involves social interaction. Technology leaders can make a difference by creating collaborative learning opportunities that link students with their peers and educators in meaningful ways.


Collaboration tools like Google Classroom and Microsoft Teams, allows students to work together on group projects, regardless of language barriers. These platforms also offer translation features and videos enabling students to communicate through text, images, videos, and audio. This ensures ELL students can express themselves in different ways and collaborate with others in the process.


Technology opens up communication channels with teachers outside of regular school hours. ELL students might need extra help clarifying concepts or asking questions about assignments. Communication tools like email, video conferencing (Zoom, Google Meet), and instant messaging apps make it easy for students to reach out for help whenever they need it.


Technology also provides asynchronous learning opportunities. EB and ELL students might need extra time to process new information in English, and having access to learning materials after school makes things more flexible. This supports independent learning and lessens the pressure of trying to keep up in fast-paced, English-language classrooms.


Providing Equity Through Accessibility


For EB and ELL students, the struggle often goes beyond just language skills, it also includes dealing with disabilities or different learning needs. Technology leaders can ensure that learning tools are accessible and inclusive for all students, including those with disabilities.


Assistive technology can significantly impact the academic success of students with physical or learning disabilities. Tools like voice recognition software, screen readers, and alternative input devices can help EB and ELL students engage with educational content that might otherwise be challenging. These tools help them overcome barriers that could keep them from fully participating in school and allow them to show their understanding in other ways.


Professional Development for Educators


Finally, technology leaders have a major role to play in providing ongoing training for teachers on the best ways to use technology to support EB and ELL students. As schools increasingly incorporate technology in the classroom, teachers need the right training to use these tools successfully for diverse students.


Workshops and training sessions focused on technology tools for language learning, assistive technology, and digital communication can empower teachers to better support EB and ELL students. Keeping up with the latest advancements in educational technology, technology leaders can guide teachers in picking and implementing the best tools for their students.



Fingal, J. (2021, December 22). 4 ways to use Tech to create a culturally responsive


Will, M., & Najarro, I. (2023, March 24). What is culturally responsive teaching?.


 
 
 

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